Greens, Labor, Nationals Oppose Forced Council Amalgamations

Tuesday 16 September

The Greens, Labor and National Party joined forces on a vote in Parliament today to bring forward a motion tomorrow opposing local government amalgamations.

Greens Member for the Mining and Pastoral Region Robin Chapple MLC said the Barnett government's attempt to sidestep the Dadour Provisions by changing council boundaries was an abuse of the Local Government Act 1995.

Under the Dadour Provisions, electors may demand a poll in the event of a merger proposal to ensure there is majority community support.

Mr Chapple said given parliament's response today it was obvious nobody was buying the Premier's "amalgamations by deceit".

"This government thinks it is above the law," he said.

"The Barnett government's attempt to force council amalgamations totally strips away any opportunity for community input on the matter.

"The Dadour provisoons were included in the act for this very reason; local government exists for the community and any changes to that representation should be made with signifncant commuity involvement."